The Ultimate Guide to the Great Barrier Reef: How to Visit & What to Expect
The Great Barrier Reef is one special body of water. Aside from its ‘great’ size of over 2,300 kilometers, it’s also full of some of the greatest beaches and wildlife in the world. So whether you’re here to snorkel and dive, lay back on the smooth white sand, explore a little deeper—or all of the above—this guide will make it easy to figure out. And, with an Ace rental car, you’ll have an easy-to-book, easy-to-afford way of getting around. Let’s dive in.
What Is the Great Barrier Reef?
The Great Barrier Reef is the largest coral reef system on Earth, home to over 1,500 species of fish and 400 types of coral. For these reasons, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Enough said? Thought so
Best Time to Visit
Come in the dry season (June to October), and you’ll get lower humidity, calm seas, great visibility for diving and snorkelling, and yes, less rain! The wet season (November to April) brings warmer water and lush green landscapes, but also a much higher chance of heavy rain and storms—not to mention a whole lot of stinging jelly fish.
How to Get There (And Where to Base Yourself)
The Great Barrier Reef spans a huge area, which means there are plenty of places to stay nearby for easy access (and something special of their own!). Here are some of our top picks:
Cairns: The easiest and most popular starting point. Cairns offers tours, cruises, reef flights, and more.
Port Douglas: A slightly quieter alternative with access to outer reef experiences.
Airlie Beach: The perfect base for exploring the Whitsunday Islands and Heart Reef.
Townsville: Great for fewer crowds and access to Magnetic Island and the Museum of Underwater Art.
With a hire car, it’s easy to make your way to the waterfront and kick off your Great Barrier Reef adventure, plus do a little exploring around the mainland.
What to Do on the Reef
Snorkel or Dive: Join a tour and visit the Reef’s best spots for coral and wildlife-spotting. If you’re just a beginner, that’s fine—just make sure your tour is suitable.
Glass-Bottom Boats: Great if you’re not a strong swimmer or want to catch the action from a comfy, dry spot.
Scenic Flights: Want to take it up a level? A flight tour will give you views of the reef that are impossible to beat—but that view comes at a price as great as the reef!
Island Hopping: Explore tropical islands like Green Island, Fitzroy Island or Hamilton Island and try their restaurants, aquariums and more.
Indigenous Cultural Tours: Learn about the reef’s significance through traditional stories and local knowledge
Tips for First-Time Visitors
Book Ahead: Reef tours and island resorts often sell out, especially in peak season.
Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Help protect the fragile coral ecosystem.
Wear a Stinger Suit: Between November and May, stinging jellyfish roam these waters. Island resorts and tour operators should provide these suits, but make sure they do!
Respect the Reef: Avoid the temptation to touch the coral or fish—they’re very sensitive.
Travel Smart with Ace Rental Cars
As soon as you cast your eyes on the Great Barrier Reef, you’ll see what all the fuss is about. And when you’re travelling with Ace, it’s easy to jump from place to place, chasing the best of the reef and its colourful inhabitants. Need a ride that’ll slot nicely into your holiday, without making a huge dent in your bank account? Book here and be on your way.
